On the second weekend of July, the historic centre of Finalborgo explodes with colour, drumbeats, and flying flags. The Palio delle Compagne Finalesi is Finale Ligure’s annual medieval festival, centred on the Trofeo Nazionale degli Sbandieratori — a national flag-throwing championship that draws teams from across Italy to compete in this spectacular Renaissance art form.

The Competition

Flag-throwing (sbandieratori) is a serious competitive sport in Italy, and the Finale Ligure tournament is one of the most prestigious on the circuit. Teams representing the historic contrade (quarters) of Finale perform choreographed routines to drum and trumpet accompaniment, judged on precision, creativity, and difficulty. The flags — heavy silk banners bearing medieval heraldry — can weigh up to 2 kg and are thrown up to 15 metres in the air in synchronized patterns.

Beyond the Flags

The Palio is more than a competition. The weekend transforms Finalborgo — already one of Liguria’s best-preserved medieval borghi — into a living Renaissance scene. Expect a costumed historical parade through the cobbled streets, traditional food stalls serving farinata and focaccia straight from wood-fired ovens, artisan craft markets, and live medieval music. The event culminates on Sunday evening with the award ceremony and a celebratory fireworks display.

Practical Info

Dates: July 11–12, 2026 (second weekend of July)
Location: Finalborgo, the medieval quarter of Finale Ligure. Most events centre on Piazza San Biagio and the surrounding streets.
Tickets: The palio itself and parade are free to watch. Some evening events in the piazza may require a small entry fee.
Getting there: Finale Ligure Marina station on the Genoa–Ventimiglia line, then a pleasant 15-minute walk to Finalborgo (or local bus).
Combine with: Finale Ligure’s beaches, the rock climbing crags at Caprazoppa, or the hiking trails of the Manie plateau. Our Finale Ligure Travel Guide covers all the outdoor options.

This is a proper local festival — not a tourist re-enactment but a genuine community tradition where Finalesi families gather, eat, and cheer their quarter’s team. If you’re on the Riviera delle Palme in mid-July, it’s one of the most authentic Ligurian experiences you can have.